Contact your local regional center and make use of their EXTENSIVE resources that include assessment, diagnosis, referrals and counseling, just to name a few. The regional center also provides funding for respite care (baby-sitting, mentoring help). We found some great helpers at our local college (St. Mary’s College in Moraga, CA). Prospective special education teachers and psychology majors are eager to learn from our kids.

2) BRACE YOURSELF.

There are many twists and turns along the road. I know this sounds a bit silly, but there is something about being mentally ready that keeps you from being rattled all of the time.

3) EXERCISE AND STAY STRONG

4) KEEP YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR.

Laugh a little. I watch this when I need to laugh, and it really helps.

5) GET MORE HELP

When Matthew was about ten, I got worn down and depressed and I got sick a lot. My doctor recommended a great therapist that was covered by my insurance who really helped me.If you need help finding help you can afford, contact me and I’ll dig around for resources.

6) MAKE TIME FOR YOUR OTHER CHILDREN,

even if it means simply taking them for a walk while your child with autism is at speech therapy. These were precious and memorable times for me and my sons Andy and John.

7) Last but not least, HAVE COUPLE TIME.

Even if you are so exhausted you can’t even talk, go for a walk, go to a movie, and by all means, put it on the calendar or it won’t happen!

That’s enough for now. More advice is available if you ask…Suggestions and insights are appreciated.

*****

APRIL IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH!!! So much going on.

Easter Seals Bay Area,Special Olympics and Safeway Inc.will kick off Safeway’s national, month-long fund-raising and awareness-raising campaign supporting Easter Seals, Special Olympics and people with disabilities. The event officially marks the start of a campaign that highlights the unique abilities of people with special needs and celebrates their commitment to their jobs and their communities. More about Easter Seals Bay Area and the month-long campaign can be found at bayarea.easterseals.com.